Mark Usherovich, 2026
Spruce / Indian Rosewood
Overview
This 2026 concert guitar from Canadian luthier Mark Usherovich represents the latest evolution of his work, and a continuation of a special collaboration with GuitarCollection.com.
Having spent significant time with this instrument, it quickly became clear that this is not only a refinement of his previous builds, but a guitar that continues to reveal new layers the more it is played. It is one of those rare instruments that is difficult to fully understand in a single sitting, as both its sound and design details continue to unfold over time.
At its core is Mark’s latest and most refined soundboard design, featuring a spruce/Nomex double-top built with his proprietary carbonized spruce process. This treatment, achieved through a careful combination of heat and pressure, gives the top a subtly aged appearance while, more importantly, producing a remarkably open and responsive sound from the very first note, despite the guitar being brand new.
The internal structure remains incredibly lightweight and refined, with a delicate seven-fan inspired architecture and subtle adjustments throughout the bracing system. Mark continues to fine-tune these details extensively, shaping the voice of each instrument with an almost scientific level of precision.
What stands out most, however, is his philosophy: that every single element of the guitar contributes to the sound. From the weight of the tuners, to the shape and mass of the headstock, to the geometry of the bridge and saddle, every decision is made with intention. The bridge itself is carefully designed to optimize the distribution of tension and energy across the top, contributing directly to the instrument’s responsiveness and sustain.
The guitar is exceptionally lightweight (under 1300g), and this immediacy is felt the moment it is played. There is a sense that the entire instrument is vibrating as one cohesive system.
Visually, the guitar is equally compelling. Koa bindings frame the body with warmth and contrast, while the African blackwood headstock veneer adds depth and elegance. The beautifully figured ebony fingerboard offers subtle visual character, and inside the guitar, Mark’s wife continues her tradition of creating hand-drawn calligraphy labels, giving each instrument a deeply personal touch.
Having now spent time both playing and recording with this instrument, it is clear to us that this represents Mark’s finest work yet.
Sound
From the very first chord, the sound of this guitar is striking.
There is a low main air resonance between E and E-flat that immediately makes itself felt, giving the bass response a powerful, almost physical presence. The basses are deep, expansive, and “thunderous,” yet remain controlled and full all the way up the register, avoiding the hollow quality that can sometimes appear in highly responsive instruments.
The trebles are clear, singing, and full of color, with a richness of overtones that allows melodies to bloom naturally. One of the most remarkable qualities is the balance between clarity and sustain, a combination that is not easily achieved but is present here in abundance.
Perhaps most impressive is the dynamic range. The guitar transitions effortlessly from delicate pianissimo to full, projecting forte, with a level of control that feels unusually accessible. This gives the player a wide expressive palette, making it easy to shape phrases and explore subtle tonal variations.
The overall experience is immersive and highly responsive, with a tonal character that feels both powerful and deeply nuanced.
Playability
This is an instrument that immediately invites playing.
The neck profile is a comfortable, slightly full C-shape, striking an ideal balance that will suit a wide range of players. The setup is low and extremely playable, allowing for ease of execution without sacrificing tonal integrity, even when pushed.
Despite its power, the guitar feels controlled and predictable in the best way. It offers both consistency and surprise, encouraging exploration while maintaining a strong sense of stability under the hands.
One of the most notable aspects is how easy it is to draw out expressive sounds. There is a natural sense of connection between player and instrument, making it effortless to experiment with dynamics, tone color, and articulation.
It is, quite simply, a guitar that makes you want to keep playing.
Specs
Year: 2026
Top: Carbonized Spruce / Nomex Double-Top
Back & Sides: Indian Rosewood
Scale Length: 648 mm
Nut Width: 52 mm
Bracing: Refined 7-fan architecture
Finish: Full French polish
Neck: Spanish cedar with carbon fiber reinforcement
Fingerboard: Beautifully figured ebony with extended upper register
Bridge: Custom-designed with optimized string pressure distribution (12-hole tie block)
Bindings: Koa
Headstock Veneer: African Blackwood
Tuners: Barnett tuners with custom engraving
Label: Hand-drawn calligraphy label by Mark’s wife
About the Maker
Mark Usherovich has been building fine handmade concert classical and romantic guitars since 2004 and is currently based in Ontario, Canada.
Mark’s journey into lutherie began in Jerusalem, Israel, where his early work crafting wooden skin drums shaped his understanding of vibration, resonance, and tonal color. His approach continues to be influenced by bowed instruments such as the violin and cello, and by the tradition of the great Spanish masters.
He later studied with Tom Blackshear in San Antonio, Texas, gaining a deep understanding of resonance tuning and structural refinement. From this foundation, Mark developed a highly individual approach that combines the warmth and character of traditional guitars with the projection and responsiveness of modern double-top construction.
Today, his instruments are increasingly played by professional artists around the world, and his work continues to gain recognition for its originality, refinement, and expressive potential.
Worldwide shipping is available.
If you're interested in purchasing, please write to me at evan@guitarcollection.com
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